National anthem auditions set for Saturday

U.S. Navy veteran Jimmy Simmons, 72, (right) stands for the national anthem during the Here’s To Our Heroes Military River Parade in 2012 at Arneson River Theatre. EDWARD A. ORNELAS/EXPRESS-NEWS

O say can you sing? If you can, hats off to you. “The Star-Spangled Banner” is a difficult tune to get right, especially in front of an audience. If you’re up for the task, auditions will be held 9 a.m.-noon Saturday at the Arneson River Theatre. The winner will sing the national anthem at America’s Armed Forces River Parade, scheduled for May 18, which is Armed Forces Day nationally. Individuals or groups of all ages can audition for the part. Hopefuls younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

This year’s parade will feature more than 25 floats representing all of the branches of the military, veterans and military support groups, according to a press release. The inaugural parade in 2012 was broadcast in more than 55 cities, including on the Pentagon Channel.